user
Write a response that appropriately completes the request.

### Instruction:
Explain the symbolism in the short story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson.

### Response:
assistant
In "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson, the use of symbolism reflects how blindly obedient and conformist society can often be. The lottery itself is a symbol of tradition, but its dark connotations signify danger and malevolence. The stones symbolize the idea of mob mentality and the danger of groupthink. The box itself serves as a symbol of lasting tradition, a relic of religious sacrifices and a reminder of the intensity of the lottery ritual.